Written question WQ99661

The Welsh Government provides student finance for Welsh-domiciled students studying eligible higher education courses throughout the UK. Access to support depends on whether a course is designated under the Welsh student support regulations.

Many specialist musical theatre and dance courses in England are already designated, allowing eligible Welsh students to access Student Finance Wales funding in the usual way, subject to the normal eligibility criteria.

For the 2026/27 academic year, the Welsh Government has also taken specific action to ensure eligible Welsh students applying to certain specialist musical theatre, dance and related performing arts courses, delivered by unregulated providers in England, can access support from Student Finance Wales. A number of these courses have been designated on a temporary basis, recognising the timing of audition and recruitment cycles and the need to minimise disruption for students who had already applied or received offers.

The Welsh Government is reviewing wider course designation arrangements to ensure future arrangements are clear, robust and deliverable for students and providers.